Ireland

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 999 or 112 for ambulance, police, or fire.
• Dial 1-800-341-900 for the national domestic violence hotline.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Crime

Although Ireland has a low rate of violent crime, you should always follow common sense. Stay aware of your surroundings when traveling.

• Rates of theft and petty crime have risen in recent years. Thieves often target tourists. In rare cases, these crimes involve physical assault or violence, especially in Dublin city center and in popular tourist areas.
• Rental cars are frequently targeted. They are easily identifiable by the rental company stickers on the rear window of the vehicle. If possible, remove these stickers and always lock your car when leaving it unattended.
• Do not leave valuables unattended in vehicles. When visiting city center areas, park your car in a secure car park and keep the parking ticket with you.
• Keep car doors locked while driving. Don’t leave luggage or valuables visible inside a parked car. Don’t leave luggage on a roof rack. When picking up and dropping off your rental car, do not leave the keys in the ignition while loading or unloading luggage.
• When using ATMs, always protect your PIN and look closely at ATMs for evidence of tampering before use. Criminals may use small electronic devices attached to the outside of ATMs called “skimmers” to steal the ATM or credit card data.
• In busy areas, thieves use distraction techniques at ATMs, such as waiting until the PIN has been entered and then pointing to money on the ground or asking for loose change. While the ATM user is distracted, another person will quickly withdraw cash and leave. If you are distracted in any way, cancel the transaction immediately.
• When using credit cards to pay at restaurants, a portable card reader should be brought to your table. Restaurant staff should not take your card elsewhere to process a charge.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams. If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.

Financial scams are common in Ireland. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or “relatives” who claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Grandparent and relative targeting

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 999 or 112 and contact the U.S. embassy at +353-1-668-8777.

• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.
• Tourist SOS is a free nationwide service offering support and assistance to tourists who are victimized while visiting Ireland. If you are a tourist victim of crime, report the incident to the nearest Garda (Irish police) station, and they will help you contact Tourist SOS.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.

• For medical attention, the Sexual Assault Treatment Unit (SATU) provides specialist treatment and information throughout Ireland.
• Dial 1-800-77-8888 for The Dublin Rape Crisis Center. It offers victims services through its national helpline.
• If you are a victim of domestic violence, there are several emergency shelters and services that can help. More information is available from the Irish Health Service Executive.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.

Drones

Refer to the Irish Aviation Authority for up-to-date information regarding drone and satellite phone regulations in Ireland.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is regulated:

• Rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced.
• Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs.
• Trained and certified staff are usually there to help with organized activities.
• If you get injured, you can usually get medical help locally.
• In rural areas, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and help.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance. 
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Adventure travel

• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure travel.

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Ireland seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy immediately.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Ireland.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

• The law in Ireland prohibits discrimination against people with physical or mental impairments. This law is enforced.
• The most common types of accessibility may include accessible facilities, information, and communication or access to services.
• Accessibility is common in public transportation, lodging, communication or information, and general infrastructure.
• General public sentiment around disability is positive.
• Contact the U.S. Embassy in Ireland to receive a list of providers.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers

• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Ireland Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Patients who do not receive benefits from Ireland’s Department of Social Protection are expected to pay all costs up-front at the time of treatment. They can apply for reimbursement from their insurance provider later.

• Modern medical facilities and highly skilled medical practitioners are available in Ireland.
• Expect long waits for access to medical specialists and admissions to hospitals for non-life-threatening medical conditions. Emergency room services can be very busy. Post-treatment admissions can include a long wait, sometimes overnight on a gurney in a hallway.
• We advise you to carry your medical history, along with a detailed list of any medication you currently take – including dosage and brand name— in your wallet, purse, or luggage.
• Most types of over-the-counter medications are available, but many U.S. brands are not. Some medications available over the counter in the United States may require a prescription in Ireland.
• Irish pharmacists may not be able to dispense medication prescribed by U.S. physicians. They may direct you to obtain a prescription from an Irish doctor.
• A list of Irish general practitioners in each area of Ireland may be obtained from the website of the Irish College of General Practitioners.
• Ambulance services are widely available.

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 999 or 112 for emergency medical services.

Ambulance services

• Ambulance services are widely available.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.

• The Department of State does not pay medical bills. U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Ireland. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

• Health facilities are available throughout Ireland. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.
• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Prescription medications

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Government of Ireland to ensure the medication is legal in Ireland.
• You may bring up to 3 months’ supply of prescription medicines with you for your own personal use.
• Schengen residents are required to have an Article 75 Schengen Certificate for prescribed narcotics or psychotropic substances on entry into Ireland if traveling from a Schengen area country.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy

• Surrogacy is largely unregulated in Ireland with no clear legal protections for foreign intended parents. Surrogacy agreements may not be enforced by Irish courts.

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water quality is potable and contains fluoride.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Ireland.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Road conditions and safety

Cars drive on the left side of the road in Ireland. If you do not have experience driving on the left, you should be especially cautious. Tourists driving on the incorrect side of the road are the cause of serious accidents each year.

• Road conditions are generally good, but once you exit the main highways, roads are likely to be narrow, uneven, and winding.
• Roads are more dangerous during the summer and on holiday weekends. Drivers should be attentive to cyclists and pedestrians, particularly in urban areas.
• Most intersections in Ireland use circular “roundabouts” instead of traffic lights. It is important that drivers pay close attention to signs and yield the right of way to those already in the roundabout.
• Most rental cars in Ireland have manual transmissions. It can be difficult to find automatic transmission rental cars.

Traffic laws

• Police periodically set up roadblocks to check for drunk drivers. Penalties for driving under the influence can be severe.
• Turning on red is illegal. Wait for the green light before moving. The green light will show you which direction you can go.
• You may use your existing U.S. driver’s license in Ireland for a temporary stay, up to 1 year.
• Some insurance and car rental companies may request an International Driving Permit in addition to your existing driver’s license. To apply for an International Driving Permit, please contact the American Automobile Association.
• You must apply for an Irish driver’s license if you become a resident of Ireland.
• Travelers planning to drive to Northern Ireland are subject to UK traffic laws while in Northern Ireland. Traffic signs may be different than in Ireland. Consult the United Kingdom Country Information page for more information on traffic laws in Northern Ireland.

Taxis and ride-shares

Taxis are widely available in Dublin city center.

• Taxi rates vary by time of day and location.
• Outside of Dublin, taxis are fewer.
• Taxis can be hailed on the street or via several available rideshare apps operating in Ireland including FreeNow and Uber. 

Public and commercial transportation

Intercity bus and train services are generally good. Most large towns and cities are connected by rail or bus. Train and bus services are more limited in rural areas between small towns.

• City bus services are generally adequate. However, many buses are crowded, frequently run late, and lines do not necessarily link easily. Pay close attention to bus stop locations in both directions. The drop-off and pick-up locations could be several blocks away from each other.
• You can review available train, tram, and bus services through the National Transport Authority’s website.
• Taxis are widely available in Dublin city center. Taxi rates vary by time of day and location. Outside of Dublin, there are fewer taxis.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.
• Visit the website of the Irish Tourism Board and the website for the National Roads Authority of Ireland, which is responsible for road safety.

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Ireland’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Ireland should check for:

• U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration (MARAD) Advisories
• MARAD Active Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Weather conditions

• Ireland has a mild climate and frequent rainfall. It can be cold, but the temperature is rarely extreme, and snowfall is uncommon.
• Hours of sunlight vary throughout the year. During the winter, it receives approximately 8 hours of daylight. During the summer, it receives up to 17 hours of daylight. Ireland observes daylight saving time.

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Ireland is a hub for multinational companies, especially in the tech industry, offering various employment opportunities for U.S. citizens and residents. Some Americans move to Ireland to join family members who are Irish citizens or residents. 

The Irish Retirement Visa

• The Irish Retirement Visa is intended for non-EEA citizens who want to retire in Ireland. It is a Long Stay 'D' Visa. This means that holders can spend more than 90 days in the country.
• If you are a U.S. citizen living in Ireland, you still need to file your taxes with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).